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2023-2024 Driest Year In Malta’s History Since 1940’s

Sep 20 2024 Share

The Malta International Airport have revealed that the last precipitation year, September 2023 – August 2024, was the second driest year in Maltese history.

The only other year which saw less rain in Maltese history was all the way back in 1948, with just 230.7 mm of precipitation being measured all year.

Over the past 12 months, the Malta International Airport’s Meteorological Office recorded just a total of 249.8 mm rainfall all year, falling 295.5 mm of rainfall behind the climatic average.

Last precipitation year, rainfall was recorded on 58 out of the 365 days of the year, with November 22nd 2023 being the wettest day of the year, with a total of 26.4 mm of rainfall.

October 2023 also stood out, becoming the driest ever October on record in the Meteorological Office’s history, with only 0.2 mm of rain.

The Maltese islands also recorded 14 thunderstorms and even saw hail three times on November 24th 2023, January 6th 2024, and February 29th 2024.

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Water Sprouts As Storm Hits Maltese Islands

Water Sprouts As Storm Hits Maltese Islands
Sep 20 2024 Share

Water sprouts have been spotted out at sea from the Maltese islands as a storm kicks off the weekend.

One was spotted off the coast of Smart City, just before the storm began earlier today.

The photo was shared on meteorological page ‘It-Temp Madwarna’ by Iona Caruana.

As rain pours and fills certain localities with flowing waters, we urge everyone to commute mindfully and carefully.

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Prime Minister In Open Mic Discussion With Youth

Prime Minister In Open Mic Discussion With Youth
Sep 20 2024 Share

During an open mic discussion with young people, Prime Minister Robert Abela outlined several important changes, including the re-establishment of the Commercial Court.

“We must continue to renew ourselves as the Labour Party in government because we want to keep fulfilling your dreams together with you,” Prime Minister and Labour Leader Robert Abela said during a session organised by Żgħażagħ Laburisti in Valletta.

He listened to the concerns raised by the youth, covering various topics. Dr. Abela referred to Malta’s government nomination for the European Commission, with Glenn Micallef expected to assume the role of Commissioner for Youth, Intergenerational Justice, Sport, and Culture.

He emphasised the government’s belief in the voice of young people and expressed disappointment at those who view youth issues as less important.

Abela also discussed topics such as the judicial process and Malta’s correctional system, highlighting reforms in the Family Court and announcing the re-establishment of the Commercial Court to handle commercial cases more efficiently due to Malta’s economic growth.

On mental health, the Prime Minister stressed the need for more community-based services. He also reiterated a commitment to preventing development on virgin land and ensuring that construction projects only proceed after final appeal decisions.

Regarding vacant properties, Abela highlighted incentives, rather than new taxes, to encourage investment in urban conservation areas. Finally, he emphasised the importance of focusing on quality tourism over simply increasing tourist numbers.

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Zoo Admits ‘Pandas’ Are Dogs Painted Black & White

Zoo Admits 'Pandas' Are Dogs Painted Black & White
Sep 20 2024 Share

A Chinese zoo has admitted to passing off painted dogs as pandas after visitors noticed the animals panting and barking, behaviours not typical of real pandas.

Visitors at the Shanwei Zoo shared videos of the so-called pandas, which had long tails and were visibly not the iconic bears.

It was revealed that the zoo had painted two Chow Chows, a fluffy dog breed, to resemble pandas, leading to public outrage and demands for refunds due to false advertising.

 

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This incident is not isolated. In May, another Chinese zoo in Jiangsu Province painted Chow Chows and initially claimed they were “panda dogs.”

The zoo later admitted that no such animals exist but defended their actions, arguing the dogs weren’t harmed by the dye and comparing it to humans dyeing their hair.

Public reaction has been mixed, with some criticizing the zoos for mistreating the dogs, as Chow Chows have sensitive skin that could be harmed by dye.

Despite this, the practice of painting dogs to look like pandas has been seen before, such as in 2019 when a dog cafe dyed six Chow Chows to resemble panda bears.

Source: CollinRugg